Get The Facts On Popular Foods That Can Damage Your Smile From Our Saint Louis Dentists

by Barry Brace

We all know that improving your diet can help you lose weight, gain energy, and feel healthier. But, did you know that watching what you eat can also improve your smile? Keep reading to get more information from our Saint Louis dentists.

It makes sense when you think about it: every single thing that we consume comes into contact with our teeth and gums. Over time, our favorite foods and beverages can alter our smiles. Here are some general truisms about the ways in which dietary decisions can affect oral health:

Acid Erosion

Acidic foods and drinks can cause dental enamel to thin, become weaker, and develop cracks, chips, and cavities. When your enamel comes into contact with an acidic substance, it temporarily softens, or de-mineralizes. It typically takes 20 to thirty minutes for enamel to re-mineralize after acid exposure. Thinks like coffee, tea, citrus fruits, fruit juices, sodas, and red wine are all quite acidic.

Damaging Sugars

You’ve probably heard, time and time again, that sugar is bad for your smile. This is the case because oral bacteria love to feed on sugars and refined carbohydrates; the more of these things you consume, the more fuel you give bacteria to grow and multiply.

Staining Substances

Deeply colored foods and drinks can leave color deposits on your dental enamel over time. The discoloration process is often accelerated when the enamel has thinned and become weaker. Some commonly consumed staining substances include red wine, coffee, chocolate, red sauces, tea, and soda. The biggest culprit when it comes to dental staining is tobacco.

In order to minimize your risk of developing these oral health issues, you want to partner with your dentist to make a personalized treatment plan. Generally speaking, it is better to consume acidic substances and sugars in moderation, and in specific, short sittings, rather than continuously throughout the day. Our Saint Louis dentists are here to answer questions that you may have—give us a call to get started!